Election Commission has issued Instructions for Voters

The Election Commission Chairman, R.M.A.L. Rathnayake, explained the procedure for marking ballots, which varies by electoral district. For the electoral divisions of Moneragala, Polonnaruwa, and Kegalle, voters will receive a ballot paper with a single column listing the contesting parties and independent groups. 

In the remaining 19 electoral districts, ballots will feature two columns due to the large number of contesting entities.

To cast a valid vote, voters are instructed to place an “X” in the box next to their preferred political party or independent group. 

For those opting to vote preferentially for individual candidates, up to three “X” marks can be placed next to the numerical digits of the candidates' names at the bottom of the ballot paper. 

Voters are cautioned against writing any numbers, names, or making additional marks on the ballot, as this will render the vote invalid.

In cases where voters have not yet received their ballot papers, the Election Commission advises them to collect them from their local Postal Office. Ballots can also be accessed online via the National Election Commission’s official website for eligible voters.

To ensure a smooth voting process, all voters are required to bring a valid form of identification, along with their registered polling card. 

The following identification documents will be accepted at the polling stations:

• A valid National Identity Card (NIC), either old or new, issued by the Department of Registration of Persons.
• A valid passport issued by the Department of Immigration and Emigration.
• A valid driving license.
• A Pensioners’ Identity Card issued by the Department of Pensions.
• An Elders’ Identity Card issued by the Divisional Secretariat.
• A Bhikkhu or Priest Identity Card issued by the Department of Registration of Persons.
• A letter from the Department of Registration of Persons confirming the particulars of the National Identity Card.
• A Temporary Identity Card issued by the Election Commission, including those for persons with disabilities.

It is important to note that while carrying the polling card to the polling station is not mandatory, voters without valid identification, such as unclear NICs, workplace-issued identification, or application receipts for a new NIC, will not be permitted to vote.

The Election Commission urges all voters to ensure they meet the identification requirements and familiarize themselves with the voting instructions to ensure their votes are counted accurately.

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